Are you an only child? I am. By default, that meant I spent a lot of time alone compared to others as a child. Left to my own devices, I have a tendency toward isolation and have to be deliberate in countering that.

I totally get how hard it can be to focus on reading or something when the thoughts are going. That's when I have to force myself to do physical stuff, even if it's just around the house. At least that way I'm accomplishing something while I obsess. Otherwise, I end up feeling even worse.

You run, so obviously you're physically active. Do you like to play any sports? Have you considered joining some kind of sports league? It can feel a little awkward first couple times out being the new guy, but that's temp.

I've heard people say positive things about meet-up. I haven't tried that yet. I want to. It makes me nervous not knowing in advance what/who to expect. Part of it is because I've lived in a the same place for some time and even though there's a good size population around here, there's the possibility someone I already know could be part of that group. Sounds weird, but that would make me feel less comfortable, not more.